“[My] connection to the cat is one of a kind,” Parker told The Dodo. “Zeus is the most chill and tolerant extroverted cat I’ve ever met. He really likes company and loves being held.”

Parker and his wife adopted Zeus and another rescue kitty named Zulu four years ago. “We knew that Zeus was the right one because he cuddled right into us,” Parker said. “When he was put down, he just wanted more affection.”

Zeus, a fluffy tabby, has been by Parker’s side through all the late-night study sessions and early morning rushes to class. Wherever Parker goes, Zeus follows. So it seemed only natural that Zeus should get to take part in his graduation in some small way.

“I chose to include him in the photos once I learned I could bring ‘friends to join in the fun for personal/fun photos,’” Parker said. “I emailed the photographer a day or two beforehand and got the all clear to do so!”

However, bringing along his buddy added some complications to the endeavor. “On the day of the photo shoot I had a midterm right before, and once that was complete I rushed home to grab Zeus,” Parker said. “I was exhausted — shows in the eyes — but it was worth it.”